Dundee United gaffer Ray McKinnon believes his side now have the look of serious promotion contenders.
Since taking over at Tannadice in the summer, Ray has embarked on a major overhaul of the squad.
That’s led to him repeatedly warning it would take time for his team to gel.
Accordingly, he’s kept quiet over the Tangerines’ chances of getting straight back up to the Premiership at the first time of asking.
He believes it will be around Christmas before they can be accurately gauged.
After a run of five wins and a draw in the last six competitive outings, though, the gaffer has been forced to admit he likes what he sees.
“I said to them after the game on Saturday they’re starting to show what they need to show to be successful in this league,” he said.
“It’s OK being able to pass the ball but there’s going to be times when they really have to dig in and work back up the park, do the ugly side.
“Against Falkirk you saw Tony Andreu going and playing left side and he was back winning headers in defence.
“They’re all showing that side of the game and they all seem to be together.
“I’ve been really pleased with them.”
Meanwhile, former United man Mark Wilson has replace former Dundee man Kevin McBride as head coach at Airdrie United.
The Diamonds have also confirmed Dundonian Eddie Wolecki Black will not be resuming his managerial duties after suffering a stroke earlier this year and has now left the club.
Ex-Raith Rovers star Gordon Dalziel is now their director of football.
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